Chinese Startup Launches Toilet-Mounted Health Tracker for Families

Chinese startup Shanmu has introduced the S1 health tracker, a device installed inside a toilet. Similar in size to an iPhone, it analyzes urine to detect early signs of health issues using just 1 microliter of sample.

Chinese startup Shanmu, a company specializing in micro-medical robotics, has introduced an innovative health tracker, S1, designed for home use. Installed discreetly inside a toilet, the device uses advanced technology to monitor health through urine analysis, providing a simple yet powerful way to detect early signs of diseases.

How It Works

The S1 health tracker is about the size of an iPhone and requires just 1 microliter of urine to perform its analysis. It uses digital microfluidic chipsets combined with artificial intelligence to process data. Within 10 minutes, the results are sent to the user's smartphone, offering valuable insights into their health.

What It Tracks

The device's multispectral sensor measures 10 key health indicators, with nine listed on the company's website:

1. Sugar levels – Helps monitor for diabetes.
2. Protein levels – Detects kidney issues.
3. Creatinine – Indicates kidney function.
4. Ketones – Tracks fat metabolism and possible ketoacidosis.
5. Nitrites – A marker for bacterial infections.
6. Leukocytes – Suggests immune response and inflammation.
7. pH value – Reflects acid-base balance in the body.
8. Urine specific gravity – Measures hydration levels.
9. Hidden blood – Detects inflammation or internal bleeding.

This detailed analysis can identify kidney and liver function abnormalities, flag potential infections, and even recommend recovery strategies after intense physical exertion.

Durable and Convenient Design

The S1 is built to last in the demanding environment of a bathroom:

• Waterproof: IPX7 rating ensures it can withstand water exposure.
• Cleanable: A medical-grade antifouling coating keeps the device hygienic.
• Energy-efficient: The rechargeable battery lasts up to two months per charge.
• Easy maintenance: Consumables are replaceable every six months, making it family-friendly and low-maintenance.

At CES 2024, the S1 earned the title of Best Device in Digital Health, highlighting its potential impact on preventive healthcare. Shanmu envisions it as a health tracker for the entire family, enabling regular monitoring without the need for clinic visits.

However, the S1 is not yet available for purchase. The company is still seeking investors to bring the device to market, and details about its pricing and release date remain undisclosed.